1994 Mitsubishi Galant Engine Is Stalling

Resolve Engine Stalling in Your 1994 Mitsubishi Galant

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant experiencing engine stalling?

When troubleshooting engine stalling in a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Start by examining the fuel system, ensuring that fuel is adequately reaching the engine. This involves inspecting the fuel pump, filter, and injectors for any blockages or failures that could impede fuel delivery. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system; worn spark plugs, damaged ignition coils, or faulty wires can significantly affect engine performance, so verify their condition and functionality. Following this, assess the air intake system by checking the air filter for clogs and ensuring that the throttle body and intake manifold are free from obstructions that could restrict airflow. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes can provide critical insights into underlying problems, guiding your next steps. Lastly, inspect for vacuum leaks, as these can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to stalling. By methodically addressing these areas, you can effectively identify and resolve the causes of engine stalling in your Galant.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is fuel delivery problems, which may arise from a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump, preventing adequate fuel from reaching the engine. Additionally, the ignition system can also be a source of trouble; faulty ignition coils or spark plugs can lead to misfires, resulting in stalling. Airflow obstructions, such as a dirty air filter or a defective mass airflow sensor, can disrupt the necessary air-fuel mixture, further contributing to stalling. Moreover, malfunctioning engine sensors, including the crankshaft position sensor or throttle position sensor, can send incorrect data to the engine control unit, causing performance issues. Vacuum leaks in hoses or gaskets can create an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, while electrical problems, such as a weak battery or faulty alternator, can also impact engine performance. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve stalling issues in their Galant.

How urgent is it to address the stalling engine in a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant?

Addressing a stalling engine in a 1994 Mitsubishi Galant is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. A stalling engine can lead to sudden power loss while driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents and jeopardizing the safety of both the driver and other road users. Moreover, neglecting this issue can result in more severe mechanical problems that may require extensive and expensive repairs. Early intervention not only helps in identifying the root cause of the stalling but also prevents further damage to critical engine components, ultimately extending the vehicle's lifespan. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize diagnosing and fixing a stalling engine promptly to ensure safe driving and avoid unnecessary costs in the future.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.